China calls artillery shell-looking object found in Papua New Guinea a wine bottle

Police find a heavy object

Port Moresby police arrested four Chinese nationals last week after finding a 32kg object at a construction site. The item was described as a large, military-grade shell. China’s embassy in Port Moresby said the object was a shell-shaped wine bottle and presented no danger. It said it was keeping local police informed while the investigation continues.

Accounts differ on its identity

Australia’s ABC reported that the object was an undetonated Chinese Type 59 artillery projectile measuring 130mm. The broadcaster said it contained chemical explosives and a fuse. According to ABC, an X-ray machine donated by Australia to the Royal Papua New Guinea Police helped identify the object. The embassy argued that China’s strict firearm regulations make it virtually impossible for an illegal military-grade shell to be smuggled out.

Online reactions and regional ties

The embassy’s wine-bottle description prompted ridicule on social media. One Facebook commenter questioned how a wine bottle could weigh 32 kilograms, while another mocked the claim. The dispute comes as China and the United States compete for influence in the Pacific, according to the report. Last month, Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi told visiting Pacific representatives that China’s regional engagement was cooperation, not geopolitical competition.

Diplomatic relationship in focus

China and Papua New Guinea are due to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties in September. The milestone comes months after Papua New Guinea closed its office in Taiwan.

Beijing said it was ready to work with Papua New Guinea and support each other on core concerns. China considers self-governed Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out using force to bring it under its control.